Iowa, Des Moines – Dry grass crackles underfoot and the breeze is already picking up, a clear sign that fire danger is building fast across central Iowa this morning. Conditions will worsen by early afternoon, creating a narrow but dangerous window for rapid fire spread.
According to the National Weather Service in Des Moines, a Red Flag Warning takes effect at 1 p.m. and continues through late evening. Southwest winds increase to 10 to 20 mph, with gusts reaching 25 mph. Humidity drops to around 15 percent, allowing fires to ignite and spread quickly.
Temperatures surge to near 89°F today, far above seasonal norms. That heat, combined with dry fuels and wind, creates critical fire conditions across Polk, Dallas, Warren, and surrounding counties. Outdoor burning is strongly discouraged, and even small sparks from vehicles or equipment could start fires.
Travel along I-35 and I-80 could be impacted if fires develop nearby. Smoke may reduce visibility quickly, especially in open rural areas. Stay alert and avoid stopping on dry grass.
Conditions shift by Sunday as cooler air arrives. Highs drop to near 57°F with breezy north winds, reducing but not eliminating fire risk.
By Tuesday, temperatures rebound into the mid-60s under partly sunny skies, signaling a gradual return to milder spring weather across the region.
This remains a fast-changing situation, and additional alerts are possible if conditions worsen. Are you noticing smoky conditions or strong winds in your area today?
Five Day Outlook for Des Moines, Iowa:
- Today: High 89°F, sunny, very dry and windy
- Sunday: High 57°F, breezy, cooler
- Monday: High 55°F, mostly sunny
- Tuesday: High 64°F, partly sunny
- Wednesday: High 70°F, mostly cloudy
